She said: "I wouldn't miss this festival for the world. It really brings the village together and gives you a chance to catch up with people you haven't seen for ages.

"The best part is seeing the kiddies all dressed up on the floats. They look so sweet."

Janet Slater, aged 36, of Birmingham Road, Allesley, added: "I've lived here all my life and when I was younger I used to take part in the procession. Now my kids love it and it is a great day out for the family."

Saturday's procession was the culmination of a week of activities in the village.

* Lyn Rotheram and Lesley Hocking are pictured suitably decked out for the occasion.